In an exclusive interview with Indigenous-SME Business Magazine, Justin Holness, Afro-Indigenous Artist, Entrepreneur, Humanitarian, and Emcee, shares how music, storytelling, and community have shaped his approach to creating meaningful experiences. From performing as an artist to guiding audiences through live events, Justin discusses the importance of authenticity, presence, and understanding the energy of a room.
Interview By SK Uddin
Justin Jah’kota Holness is an Afro-Indigenous artist, entrepreneur and humanitarian who believes in serving the greater good of the community. His father is from Kingston, Jamaica and his mother is Nakota Assiniboine. He was born and raised in Winnipeg and now lives full time in his home community of Ocean Man First Nation in the Treaty 4 territory.
Justin Jah’kota Holness is a multitalented artist with two songs reaching number one on the Indigenous music countdown and has been nominated for multiple awards throughout his career. He is a graduate from the First Nation University of Canada with a Diploma in Business Administration and a Certificate in Indigenous Economic Development. As of June 2025, he was nominated for his first term as elected council for his community of Ocean Man First Nation.
What inspired you to become an emcee, and how did you begin your journey?
My journey began as an artist. Sharing my story in the form of rap has been transformational. I have always tried my best to encapsulate a moment in time of a life event, history, or a moment that I find to be significant and transform those moments into music. I had to learn how to become a truth teller to advocate for the greater good of our shared community. Over time I would get invitations to not only perform my music but also to MC. I have always been curious about how I can be the best version of myself and improve my public speaking and live performance. What I came to realize is the more I show up as my authentic self the better I would get. From performing on stage to helping events navigate their mission as emcee, it became something I truly enjoyed and honored to be invited to do. I believe that MCing found me, and I am simply doing my part to walk the path The Creator designed.
What does a great event experience mean to you?
A great event experience for me is when I am simply able to be a helping hand in uplifting and support the audience to navigate the gathering or event. When I can fulfill the needs of the organizers to deliver the agenda and script and help the event flow smoothly. It is especially meaningful when audience members share with me that I helped them have a positive experience. When someone compliments your energy it is one of the most appreciated compliments to receive. A great experience is truly manifested when I can infuse a positive vibe in the room that allows everyone to enjoy the event while serving in the best interest of the audience and the needs of the organizers.
How do you connect with different audiences and create an inclusive atmosphere?
One of the ways I try to connect is to be present with the audience. I actively listen to not only what is being shared, but more importantly listening to the energy in the room. Sometimes the spirit in the room will guide me to bring the energy up or I may need to acknowledge something heavy that was shared and bring us back to balance or re-centre the audience into their heart. Being able to read the room is probably one of the most important elements that help create an elevated and inclusive atmosphere.
What have been the biggest lessons from working in live events and public speaking?
One of the biggest lessons I learned from working live events and public speaking is that it’s also a metaphysical experience. It’s not just what is being said, but it’s also how people felt during the event. I’ve learned that memory is correlated to the frequency of emotion. So the different spectrums of emotions that are experienced during the event will be part of the memory people walk away with. So I always try my best to ensure the audience is enjoying their experience to the best of my ability in the short moments I may have on the mic. It’s also important knowing that it’s not about me, it’s about the theme or the purpose of the event and If I can do a good job to help fulfill the mission of the organizers while supporting the audience through it, we all get to have a positive experience together.
What advice would you give to young people who want to build confidence and pursue a career on stage?
One thing I would suggest to a young person who wants to build confidence and pursue a career on stage is to first find your true self. Practice developing positive coping skills and establish healthy outlets like exercise, connecting with nature, or knowing how to cleanse your energy. I would also encourage a young person to live a positive lifestyle because your spirit will come out in your energy when you are in front of large audiences. It is much better to be confident and secure in who you are and be tapped into your true sense of purpose, than trying to fake it to make it. Take care of your mental health, and never let a title, role, or position become your identity. Always be kind to people, genuinely listen, and respond with care. Lastly, don’t be afraid to be yourself, it’s your greatest asset. Go out into the world, try new things, and explore what life has to offer, because you never know when you might positively impact someone’s life for the better and that is a beautiful path to walk.
Disclaimer: Indigenous-SME Business Magazine is committed to providing insightful interviews that highlight the successes and challenges faced by small and medium-sized businesses. The views expressed in this interview are those of the guest and may not reflect the opinions of the magazine or its affiliates.